INVESTIGATION: Sex offenders moved near bus stop in Polk County
Our cameras were rolling Thursday night when deputies raided a Polk county camp where sex offenders were living. Today, we found out where deputies moved them -- to a mobile home park near a school bus stop.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Senate vote preview
A health care vote in the Senate could signal the beginning, not the end.

Should women wait to get pap tests?
For the second time this week, health experts are releasing new cancer screening guidelines aimed at women -- and it has many in our area confused and concerned.

Finally, some answers about Chinese drywall
A full report on health effects and consequences of Chinese drywall is expected on Monday.

Body found near Port Richey flea market
Patrons at the nearby USA Flea Market on US 19 noticed a strong smell, and reported it to authorities.

Get some Black Friday deals early
Some retailers are holding pre-Black Friday sales so you can get a jump start on your shopping.

Hidden restaurant ingredient could pose health risk
It's one of the most common ingredients out there and your favorite restaurant may be loading your food up with dangerous amounts.

Bacteria closes Bay area beach
Health officials fear contact with the water may pose an increased risk of catching infectious disease.

Rabid raccoon alert issued in Venice
A rabies alert has been issued in Venice after two people were bitten by a rabid raccoon.

Bicyclist killed in Pinellas Park
A bicyclist traveling along Belcher Road was struck and killed early Friday.

Florida unemployment rises in October
The number of unemployed Floridians topped 1 million in September and it remained slightly over that mark in October.

Mosquito spraying in Busch Gardens area Saturday
The Mosquito and Aquatic Weed Control Unit will be spraying to control adult mosquitoes between 5am and 7am in the area of Busch Gardens and USF.

Sarasota police chief gets suspension in botched investigation
Chief Peter Abbott received a two-week suspension and a police officer was fired for an incident involving a handcuffed suspect.

Earn free tickets to the Greatest Show on Earth
The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus is coming to town with free tickets if you contribute to Metropolitan Ministries.

Casey Anthony defense: Meter reader could have killed Caylee
Anthony's lawyers say they have evidence of questionable past acts by former Orange County meter reader Roy Kronk.

TK's Take: Saints 'Brees in' to Tampa
The Saints come marching in as unbeaten division leaders. Will the Bucs pull off the upset? Here's TK's prediction.

Paying attention? Take our Florida news quiz
Here's a new opportunity to test your knowledge of recent Florida news events.

10 steps to a 30-minute garden
You can have a nice garden without making it a full-time job. Here's our expert's advice.

Teacher’s baby needs new heart, school trying to help
The infant daughter of a Hillsborough County teacher needs a heart transplant. The teacher’s school wants to help make it happen.

Bay area pharmacies making swine flu vaccine option
Compound pharmacies can make the swine flu vaccine in the liquid form.

Tampa police officer critically injured in crash
Officer Andrea Law was critically injured when she was thrown from a vehicle while vacationing in Cozumel, Mexico.

Shop smart and stay safe
Car break-in's, purse snatching and credit card fraud all peak during the Holidays. How to stay safe on your next shopping trip.

Strangers and friends help severely burned woman
Deputies arrested Audrey Mabrey's estranged husband, Chris Hanney, saying he tried to kill her by lighting her on fire. Now, help is coming in for the injured woman.

Veteran given proper funeral after burial mix-up
A Florida woman wanted to give her dad, a World War II veteran, a proper funeral. But when she contacted the military, they told her he had already been buried.

Cowboys and cattle coming to Channelside Drive
The cattle drive will take place near the Tampa Bay History Center on Saturday morning at 10:00.

Double amputee speaks out about incident
After losing his legs because of a distracted driver, Emmanuel Mejia hopes texting while driving becomes illegal in Florida.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Florida Senators sound off on health care bill
The battle lines are being drawn along party lines.

Pinellas boaters safe after swimming to shore
The pair made it safely to shore after their overturned boat forced them to swim back to solid ground.

Find the best Black Friday deals on video games
One website has created a cheat sheet so you know where to look for the best deals on video games on Black Friday.

Hillsborough County to receive $100 million from Gates Foundation
The county is among three school districts who have agreed to be test kitchens for some radical ideas for improving teacher quality.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Senate bill vs. House bill
We have created a simple guide so you can compare the Senate and the House Democratic versions of health care reform.

Missing Seffner woman found safe
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office says a missing Seffner woman has been found safe.

Colorado hurricane team says its '09 forecast was high
Colorado-based weather researchers say three hurricanes formed in the Atlantic this year, two fewer than they predicted before the season and one less than their August update called for.

After Arlington mixup, daughter plans to bury dad
The daughter of a World War II veteran plans to bury her father in Florida, years after an urn filled with rocks was interred in his name at Arlington National Cemetery.

Husband held without bail on attempted murder charge
Christopher Hanney is accused of setting his wife on fire in their Apollo Beach home on Tuesday.

Web site alleges NCAA violations at USF
A sports Web site is reporting that the University of South Florida men's basketball program violated numerous NCAA rules.

Family terrorized in two day home invasion
Authorities say gunmen broke into a family's Winter Garden home and forced them to withdraw nearly $24,000 from their bank account before shooting one of the victims.

Glenn Beck bringing his book tour to Tampa
Fox News host Glenn Beck will be in Tampa to promote his book "Arguing With Idiots" this Saturday.

Computer glitch causes flight delays at TIA
A problem with the FAA system that collects airlines' flight plans caused widespread flight cancellations and several delays at Tampa International Airport this morning.

Florida: We're #1! For weird news...
A new survey ranks the Sunshine State tops when it comes to strange news, and Tampa is in the top 20 strange cities.

Two boys confess to Amber Alert hoax
Authorities say two Port St. Lucie boys fabricated a story of two men abducting a 7-year-old girl.

14-year-old charged with attempted murder
The teen appeared in juvenile court Thursday following a savage attack on a 55-year-old man who was stabbed 30 times.

Pop Quiz: Ready for Twilight's New Moon?
As the newest intallment in the "Twilight" saga takes over the world of pop culture, what better than a 'Pop' quiz on the cast, characters and story of the popular books turned cult-classic movies.

TJ Maxx hostage incident raises questions
Two gunmen who held employees and customers hostage in a Venice TJ Maxx store are still on the loose.

Deputy injured in crash, man arrested after fleeing
Pinellas Sheriff's Office has arrested the man who fled from the scene of a crash where a Deputy was injured.

Husband charged with attempted murder
Christopher Hanney is accused of setting his wife on fire in their Apollo Beach home on Tuesday.

Teen charged with stabbing wheelchair-bound man
A 14-year-old Lakeland boy is accused of stabbing a wheelchair-bound man at least 30 times.

Tampa businesses conned by thieves
Police searching for three suspects who schemed restaurants and gas stations out of hundreds of dollars.

Free swine flu vaccines in Sarasota County
Two clinics to be held Saturday for those at high risk.

Eassa: Is This Team Really 1-8?
The Bucs locker room definitely doesn’t feel like that of a team with just one win.

Maersk Alabama attacked again; former bay area crew member reacts
Ken Quinn who was on board the Maersk Alabama the first time it was nearly seized by pirates says this time the crew had a huge advantage.

Pasco County residents questioning utilty bills
State Senator Mike Fasano accuses Aloha Utilities of acting like a monopoly.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Mandated paid sick days?
The H1N1 virus could force employers to offer workers paid sick days if they catch the swine flu.

Tampa City Council passes transgender law
Critics had hoped to sway Tampa's City Council from finalizing a new law that would protect transgendered people from discrimination.

Deputies: Hillsborough woman used stun gun on children
Stacey Horace is facing charges of child abuse after being arrested on Tuesday.

Hillsborough Deputies deliver harvest
Some Bay Area food banks will get a big boost just in time for Thanksgiving.

Homeowners present check to Cleveland Elementary
Seminole Heights homeowners presented a $600 check to the principal of Cleveland Elementary School to help with financial needs.

Dirty Dining: Bay area bakeries
In a special Dirty Dining investigation, we found that several bay area bakeries shut down because of insects, unsanitary practices, or temperature issues.

Payroll issue gives one nursing student a run for her money
You may love your job, but would still show up if payday didn't come like clock work?

Monkey reportedly on the loose in Hillsborough
Deputies have been unable to catch the animal, which may be the same monkey spotted last week in the Rowlett Park area.

How to safeguard your purse while shopping
Don't go to the mall without reading this common-sense safety advice for women.

USF bans smoking for the Great American Smoke-Out
USF Tampa will ban smoking for one day in honor of the Great American Smoke-Out.

People names 'Sexiest Man Alive' in surprising pick
It is the winner's second time getting the coveted endorsement.

INSIDE: See photos of the 'Sexiest Men' and see which woman once made the list.

Walmart releases full 2009 Black Friday ad
The Black Friday ad that many shoppers have been waiting for is finally here.

Officials urge food safety measures this Thanksgiving
An estimated 76 million people contract food-borne illness in the United States each year.

Johnny Depp named 'Sexiest Man Alive'
People Magazine has named Johnny Depp the 'Sexiest Man Alive.'

Ford, Subaru, Volkswagen win big with Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Ford, Subaru and Volkswagen sit atop the insurance industry's annual list of the safest new vehicles, according to a closely watched assessment used by car companies to lure safety-conscious consumers to showrooms.

Manatee Announces School Swine Flu Vaccine Schedule
The Manatee County Health Department has released its November and December swine flu vaccine clinics for elementary schools.

Pirates again attack US-flagged Maersk Alabama
Pirates seized the cargo ship last spring. But this time, guards repelled the takeover attempt.

Walgreens Wellness Tour hits Largo
Today, you have a chance to get a free health screening. Its part of a partnership between AARP and Walgreens to $60 million dollars in free care over a period of two years.

Stop debt collection calls
A three month investigation by the Scripps News Service finds that collection calls are at an all time high in 2009.

Woman in critical condition after allegedly being set on fire
It's believed a husband may have doused his wife with a flammable liquid and set their Apollo Beach home on fire during a domestic dispute.

Get a head start on the Great American Smokeout
The Great American Smokeout isn't until Thursday but Pinellas Health Officials say you can take steps towards healthier habits today.

Consumer group warns about lead in toys
The Center for Environmental Health says some toys on your holiday shopping list have high levels of lead.

Woman set on fire in apparent domestic dispute
Initial reports indicate that a woman was doused with lighter fluid by her husband and set on fire at the house in Apollo Beach.

17 copper thefts reported in Clearwater since October
11 business, 4 churches, 1 school and 1 house have been victims of the copper theft.

23 arrested in 'Operation Adult Use' in Pinelllas
The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office says 23 people have been arrested in 'Operation Adult Use.'

Texting and driving may be illegal someday if Crist gets his way
Following the lead of other states around the country, the Governor is looking to ban texting and driving in Florida.

6 hostages rescued from Venice SWAT situation
The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office says 2 armed men went into a TJ Maxx on U.S. 41 in Venice just before 9:00 Tuesday night, taking six people hostage.

Hostages freed after TJ Maxx standoff
At least six people were held hostage by two gunmen in the Venice store Tuesday night. The hostages managed to escape without serious injury. The gunmen remain on the loose.

Governor Crist urges Florida ban on texting while driving
Governor Charlie Crist has urged Florida lawmakers to ban texting while driving.

Ladies of Clearwater bare their mid-drifts for charity
They call themselves the "Clearwater Cougars" and you can get their swimsuit calendar just in time for the holidays.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Pro-choice group launches new ad
The group is taking their message directly to the Senators crafting their version of health care reform.

UPDATE: OnStar official reaches out to family
9-month-old Layla was locked in the car accidentally. Now the company is reaching out to the family after help was refused.

Bucs welcome back Aaron Sears
Guard Aaron Sears returns to the team, but not right away.

Wal-Mart announces select Black Friday deals
A spokeswoman for the retailer has confirmed some of the sale prices that will be offered on November 27.

Hillsborough County expanding Veterans Memorial Park
The expansion will have a bleacher area for special ceremonies and plenty of parking for the public, but it may be most valuable to those who lost family members in war.

Dirty Dining: Remington's Steakhouse
This steak house accumulated 193 violations in the last year and a half and state inspectors documented no certified food manager on duty in almost every report since early 2008.

UPDATE: Former deputy given date to respond to eviction notice
Former Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputy Michael Cartwright has been given until December 7th to respond to the County’s efforts to evict him from his rent free home in Brandon’s Saladino Park.

Pasco County woman goes from homeless to hopeful
The latest group of graduates from the Pasco County Adult Drug Treatment Court hope to continue the program's success.

Turnpike officials want thoughts on toll rates
Florida's Turnpike officials want your thoughts on proposed toll rates that will be introduced in early 2011.

Atlanta floods cause Eggo shortage
The company says waffles might be in short supply until the middle of 2010.

Costco stops carrying all 'Coke' drinks in price dispute
Costco is no longer carrying Coca-Cola products in its stores nationwide because of a pricing dispute with the beverage maker.

Elementary school mourns first grader killed in Port Richey fire
Grief counselors are on site at Gulf Highlands Elementary school to help children cope with the loss of Bryce Atkeson.

Police find loaded gun in baby seat
Dade City police arrested a man who had an outstanding warrant and found more than a rattle in his backseat.

Flesh-eating piranha could surpass python threat
Florida Fish and Wildlife officials say a south Florida boy fishing in a retention pond reeled in a red-bellied piranha.

Cigarette sales plummet in Florida after tax increase
Sales are down 20% following a state tax increase of $1.00 a pack.

Newlywed wife tried to murder husband three times, investigators say
Dalia Dippolito, who's accused of soliciting a hit-man to kill her newlywed husband, tried to kill him twice before that, according to newly-released court documents.

New mammogram advice raises questions, concerns
A government task force says most women don't need mammograms in their 40s and should get one every two years starting at 50.

Teen charged with murdering caretaker, burning body
Zachary Snyder of Dunnelon was charged with first-degree murder after detectives found his former caretaker's burned body in a backyard pit.

Ida to blame for shark bites
Recent storms brought by Tropical Storm Ida created murky surf conditions helping to increase the chance of shark bites according to officials.

Rescued dogs brought to Largo from Tennessee
The 24 dogs were part of a group of animals recovered from a hoarding investigation in Cheatham County, Tennessee. They will be put up for adoption.

Organize your Thanksgiving: Save time, money and stress
Plus, how to survive your holiday guests.

Hard ball debt collection in hard times
Aggressive, cruel and potentially illegal practices by debt collectors are keeping a local lawyer busy.

Another sex assault claim at Walker Middle
A 13-year-old special-needs student at Walker Middle School in Tampa claims she was molested on the school bus with a bus driver and aide present.

Crash snarls traffic on northbound I-275 in Tampa
A crash on the northbound lanes of I-275 in Tampa caused a traffic jam for a few hours on Monday night.

St. Pete Police search for bank robbery suspect
St. Petersburg Police are asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect who robbed a Bank of America.

'Twilight' ignites new interest in Dracula
Today tourists are drawn to Braun castle, not because of Vlad the man of history, but because of Dracula the legend.

Two injured in fire at Palm Harbor health care facility
Two people were injured at a fire at a Palm Harbor health care facility Monday afternoon.

Rescued dogs brought to Largo from Tennessee
24 dogs have arrived at the SPCA in Largo after being confiscated during a Tennessee hoarding investigation.

Police prep for holiday crime
Officers prepare to combat criminals looking to take advantage of holiday shoppers.

Tampa family refused help by OnStar
They promise to come to your aid any time, anywhere, but when a 9-month-old baby was locked in a car, OnStar refused to help.

Parade canceled over water woes
The annual holiday boat parade in Winter Haven has been canceled due to low water levels.

New kid's hospital is state of the art
While it will have all the fancy equipment and technology, the new All Children's Hospital facility was designed with families in mind.

Study raises new questions about Merck pill Zetia
Two cholesterol drugs still taken by millions of Americans are the subject of concern for a second time, according to a new study.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Possible paid leave for swine flu
New emergency legislation could force employers to give employees paid sick time if they come down with the H1N1 virus.

H1N1 clinics limited in Pinellas due to vaccine shortage
The Pinellas Heath Department says H1N1 clinics are being limited due to a vaccine shortage.

UPDATE: Federal authorities investigating 'stolen valor' case in Tampa
Federal prosecutors have issued a statement saying they will vigorously prosecute cases of "Stolen Valor" in the wake of an ABC Action News investigation.

Will you watch? Meteor show to light up sky tonight
The show will appear to be shooting almost directly out of the planet Mars.

Hillsborough deputy injured in crash with stolen van
The deputy was injured in an early morning crash with a stolen van on Waters Ave.

Toys R Us Black Friday ad available
You can get great deals on everything for your Toys R Us kid.

Creative Loafing hires ex-St. Pete Times publisher
Alternative weekly publisher Creative Loafing Inc. has named former St. Petersburg Times publisher Marty Petty as its new chief executive officer.

Leonid meteor shower to light up sky Tuesday morning
Depending on where you live, you could see quite a show during the early morning hours of November 17.

TBPAC undergoing a major change
TBPAC is changing its name to the David R. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts.

JCPenney releases 2009 Black Friday ad
The department store chain is offering hundreds of doorbusters for those willing to start shopping at 4:00 am.

Students share classrooms after fire hits Seffner school
A weekend fire damaged 15 classrooms, now students are packed into the remaining space.

Gruden agrees to multiyear contract with ESPN
Jon Gruden has agreed to a multiyear contract to stay at ESPN, suggesting he won't be returning to coaching anytime soon.

Couple tried to steal computer from Wal-Mart
Authorities say the couple tried to pass the computer through the garden center to another suspect waiting on the other side.

State lawmakers pitch new 911 system legislation
Representative Ken Roberson and Senator Nancy Detert will made the announcement this afternoon in North Port.

Hang-glider dies after weekend accident
An autopsy is scheduled today for a hang-glider who hit a tree Sunday.

Swine flu vaccines available at 6 Hillsborough schools
The Hillsborough County Health department is moving forward with its program to offer swine flu vaccines to students.

Things to never scrimp on
There are things in your family's budget where it's okay to cut back, and others where, if you cut, it could come back to haunt you later.

Space Shuttle Atlantis launches
Atlantis blasted off Monday afternoon, carrying six astronauts and a full load of spare parts to the International Space Station.

INVESTIGATION: A Tampa case of stolen valor
An ABC Action News investigation has uncovered a blatant violation of "The Stolen Valor Act of 2005," the federal law that makes it illegal for anyone to fraudulently claim to have earned a medal of valor in military service to the nation.

Have you been paying attention? Find out here
From a freak late-season hurricane to a bizarre love triangle, how well do you know your Florida news? Take our quiz.

How to travel with less stress this holiday
Practical survival advice for those planning family journeys

St. Pete officer hit by DUI driver
The officer was heading to help another officer when Lura Goldsmith hit the front end of his cruiser Sunday night.

Hernando fire truck involved in fatal crash
Investigators say Christopher Smith's pickup truck crossed into the path of the fire truck on Centralia Road Sunday night.

Child dies in Port Richey fire
A 6-year-old boy died when fire broke out at his home on Bridleton Road around 11:30 Sunday night. Another man suffered severe second-degree burns.

Tampa Police deploy taser on pitbull
Tampa Police deploy taser on pitbull in an effort to control the dog.

Woman dies after getting run over by own truck
A woman ran herself over with her own truck in a SweetBay Parking lot on Sunday night.

Eassa: Morris can be fined, so I’ll say it...the refs blew the call
A questionable call in second quarter had tremendous impact on Bucs-Dolphins game.

From cancer patient to crusader
Cheryl Snyder beat cancer. Now, she is committed to helping other women with her new charity, Diva Hope Foundation.

Golfers cooking 'green' for needy
Rather than playing on the green, a group of golfers hosted their annual early Thanksgiving.

10 tips on saving energy and money
Progress Energy officials offer 10 tips they say will put more money in your pocket and conserve energy at the same time.

FHP trooper injured in pursuit
Two juvenile suspects are in custody following a stolen vehicle pursuit that ended with one trooper being injured.

Pianos on display in Ybor City
Ten working pianos were scattered throughout Ybor, all of them works of art, all sitting out waiting to be played.

Close, but no cigar in Miami for Bucs
A 2nd straight comeback bid by Josh Freeman falls short.

Sarasota teen dies in stranger's home
Gunshots woke Charles Douglas as he was sitting on his porch of his Sarasota home Sunday morning.

Seffner school ready to open after fire
The Principal of McDonald Elementary school says students will follow their regular schedule.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Should we copy Canada?
When we talk about health care reform, Canada's universal health care system comes up a lot. Is that where we are heading? Should we be?

CRITICAL CONDITION: The latest on the Senate bill
What you can expect to see this week from the Senate with regards to health care.

Check unemployment benefits eligibility on the Web
Florida's unemployment agency on Friday says it has launched a new online feature for jobless to see if they are eligible for benefits under a 20-week extension approved by Congress last week.

Tweeters to report on shuttle launch
About 100 of NASA's geekiest fans will be on hand, pecking away at iPhones, BlackBerrys, laptops and other Twittering gadgets.

Panhandle woman charged with killing husband
The Bay County Sheriff's Office says 32-year-old Sabrina Griffin shot her husband, Brian Griffin, in the chest with a rifle on Saturday at their home in Fountain.

59-year-old woman dies after Fla. Keys dive trip
The Monroe County Sheriff's Office says Johnsi Hudspeth, of Elkin, N.C., was on a commercial dive off Key Largo when she encountered trouble and approached a nearby boat for help.

The secret to the best ribs
John Thomas went out to the Ribfest to see how his bbq sauce stands up to the experts

3 South Florida teens killed in crash
3 teens died when the car they were driving in crashed into a canal.

Back to the Beach
Postcard Inn combines a little of the old and some of the new...

Deputy injured in early morning crash
A Polk County deputy is in the hospital this morning after his patrol car rolled and landed in a ditch

Missing Palm Harbor man found
The Pinellas County Sheriff's department says they have located the man elderly man who went missing

Teen killed in dirt bike accident
A Citrus County teen is killed when he was thrown from his dirt bike

Florida Medicaid patient medical histories go electronic
Florida health professionals will now have access to electronic Medicaid records

There really is a United States Pizza Team!
Successful member of team in Lithia now wants to win an international title.

Police looking for 3rd driver in fatal pedestrian accident
Officers say an unidentified man stepped into traffic on E. Hillsborough Avenue and was hit by several cars.

Zephyrhills Fall AutoFest
This year's AutoFest features a car show and vintage autos racing on a dirt track.

Florida unemployment benefit status available on the web
Those receiving benefits can find out if they are eligible for an extension through a new online feature

World War II explosives may be buried at Orlando school
Search will begin in December at school where military explosives are believed to be buried

A winter garden you can eat from
Plants you can grow to feed you and your family during the cold season

Silver Alert issued for Palm Harbor man
Authorities say 81-year-old Merle Farley left his home in Blue Jay Estates around 5 o'clock Saturday afternoon in his car, and hasn't been seen since.

'Balloon Boy' grandma denies hoax
Even though Richard Heene and his wife pled guilty on Friday to charges related to the now infamous incident, his mother insists it was not a hoax.

Up close with Emeril Lagasse
One of the best known chefs in the world, Emeril Lagasse dishes out some major scoop that involves the White House.

Healthcare relief for residents in dire need
Some Bay area residents received some much needed medical advice. It did not cost them a dime.

Murder victim's family refuses to give up on finding killer
2 years after Tracey McClelland was murdered, her family refuses to give up.

Eagle Lake teen killed in fatal crash
According to the Polk County Sheriff's Office, 17-year-old Amber Shaw was headed west on Dundee Road when her car left the roadway.

7 ways to spend less, give more this holiday season
Don't go deeper into debt with your holiday gift purchases. Here are 7 simple steps to give yourself the gift of well-managed holiday spending.

Naples teen forces victim to buy Playstation 3 at gunpoint
The victim told Collier County deputies that 18-year-old David Daniels and another man stopped his vehicle and pulled guns on him Monday after he followed them into a gated community.

3 hurt in biplane crash during Aviation Day
Three people are being treated at a local hospital after a biplane crashed during an aviation event in Fort Myers.

NASA on track for Monday space shuttle launch
NASA has cleared space shuttle Atlantis for liftoff Monday on a trip to stock up the International Space Station with several years' worth of spare parts.

Disney World takes steps to fight swine flu
How about some hand sanitizer before greeting Mickey Mouse?

Two fatal accidents in Polk County overnight
Two men die in seperate car accidents overnight. Neither men were wearing seatbelts.

USF Police: Student disabled smoke alarm to smoke pot
USF Police say a 19 year old student dismantled the smoke alarm in his dorm room so he could smoke marijuana without getting caught.

15-year-old arrested in police pursuit
A teenager and another man arrested for leading police on a chase through Manatee County and into Pinellas

Fire torches classrooms at Seffner elementary school
Officials said us there was fire damage to one or two classrooms, and smoke damage to 15 McDonald Elementary's 38 classrooms.

Orlando city council candidate arrested
Orlando city council candidate faces drug charges

Balloon boy parents may have talk show deals
Lawyer's request stirs up speculation about talk show deals

Looking to adopt a pet?
Hundreds of pets available for adoption this weekend at the Pet Expo

Badge Bowl VIII is tonight
The charity football game between Tampa police and firefighters raises money for childhood cancer.

Ribfest 2009 at Vinoy Park
Vinoy Park in St. Petersburg will be full of music and great barbeque this weekend and it's all for a good cause.

Donald Trump sued over failed condo project
It's still an empty plot of land near the Hillsborough River, but it was once the site for what many believed would be the Trump Tower of Tampa, a proposed 52-story high rise.

Gas station murder victim 'Chris shot me'
Before he died, Anthony Prather told a deputy who shot him, according to the Hillsborough Sheriff's Office.

Man injured in Town N Country shooting
Deputies responded to the Tudor Cay Apartments, at 9133 Tudor Drive, just after 6:30 p.m.

Ironman underway in Clearwater
Triathletes will swim in the Intracoastal instead of the Gulf.

Paula Dockery refuses to let party anoint the next Governor
Lakeland State Senator, Paula Dockery has entered the Gubernatorial Republican primary setting up the possibility of an all female general election contest.

Energy Drinks may do more harm than good
The FDA announced that it is challenging makers of energy drinks to prove their beverages are safe.

Disgraced judge avoids jail time
Thomas Stringer was sentenced to one year of supervised release during a federal hearing in judge Elizabeth Kovachevich's courtroom Friday.

Sumter woman allegedly shoots husband in the shower
A 51-year-old woman kept negotiators at bay for nearly four hours after shooting her husband inside their home Thursday afternoon

NASA reports evidence of water found on the moon
The results come after the Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite was intentionally crashed into the moon last month.

FedEx driver finds gunshot wounded woman in Sarasota
A FedEx driver found a woman shot in Sarasota on Friday morning.

Man killed in fatal accident near Oldsmar railroad tracks
The single car accident happened before 10:00 am at Tampa Rd and State Road 580.

Best Buy 2009 Black Friday ad leaked
The electronics giant is planning huge sales for the day after Thanksgiving, and they urge you to line up early.

Namath must muzzle 'dangerous dog'
Joe Namath appeared before a hearing officer on Thursday in West Palm Beach on charges that two of his dogs attacked people at his home in Tequesta.

Franchisees to Burger King: We want it our way
Several Burger King franchisees are suing the corporation over its $1 double cheeseburger promotion.

11th H1N1 death reported in Pinellas County
A 38-year-old woman with underlying health problems is the 11th person to die of the H1N1 Flu virus in Pinellas County.

Little boy stands up to bullying
A Spring Hill school held a day long event where students learned from two people who know the effects of bullying all to well.

Office Depot 2009 Black Friday ad available
Interested in a $200 netbook or a $50 digital camera bundle? Then Office Depot is where you'll want to be on Black Friday.

'Balloon boy' father pleads guilty
After the hearing, when asked whether he had anything to say to the people who helped look for his son, Richard Heene didn't respond.

Massive cruise ship arrives in Florida on Friday
The 16-deck Oasis of the Seas is scheduled to dock in at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale on Friday morning.

Suspect in custody after shooting at deputy
A Hillsborough County deputy was responding to a call at Fletcher and Florida Avenue when shots were fired that shattered glass, cutting the deputy.

The secrets behind the funniest websites
Could be "Not Safe for Work," at least in terms of killing your workplace productivity

TK's Take: Buccaneers vs. Dolphins
The Bucs have won the last three meetings since 1991. Can they win four in a row? Tom Korun has his prediction.

New pod opened at Land O'Lakes Detention Center
Land O'Lakes Detention Center now has a new pod in it's facility.

Tarpon Firefighters rescue kitten stuck in tree
Tarpon Firefighters rescued a kitten that was stuck in tree on Thursday evening.

Man wanted for robbing Lakeland Subway
Lakeland Police are looking for a man wanted for robbing a Subway on November 3rd.

Eassa: 1 step forward, 2 steps back for the Bulls
Rutgers took the USF Bulls to the woodshed in New Jersey.

Lotto winner missing for months
Abraham Shakespeare won a $30 million jackpot in November of 2006.

Suspect description released in burglary of Bucs player's home
Starting safety Sabby Piscitelli, 26, returned to his home Sunday, hours after the team's 1st win, only to discover that it had been ransacked.

Bradenton mom charged in son's bathtub drowning
Ryan Gerken died June 3, several days after his mother found him submerged in about a foot of water inside a bathtub at the family's home.

Dangerous Gulf waters could affect Ironman Competition
The swim portion of the Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3 may be held in the Intracoastal instead of the Gulf of Mexico.

Tampa man jailed after calling 911 for sex
Joshua Basso told police he ran out of minutes on his cell phone so he called 911, knowing it would be free.

Mother claims school didn't stop bullies from attacking her son
A St. Petersburg mom says her son was attacked twice at school after she reported bullies to school authorities.

Teens escape burning Tampa home
Firefighters say a simple mistake caused a fire that caused thousands in damage to a Bay Area duplex.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Senate continues to craft bill
Some Republicans are already opposing it before they've seen it.

Could Tampa Heights be one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in America?
Could one of Tampa's Historic Neighborhoods be the 17th most dangerous in America? Tampa Police say "no way".

Billboard supporting Atheism generates 'overwhelming' feedback
When Rob Curry sits down at his computer, the emails are overwhelming.

Neglected horses seized from Hernando property
Animal Control authorities say two of the horses have been euthanized and the other seven are being taken in for evaluation.

Man accused of attacking priest speaks out
Jasen Bruce shared his side of the story on the Bubba the Love Sponge show this morning.

Sarah Palin to visit Florida on book tour
The former vice presidential nominee will be at the Villages later this month signing copies of her new book.

Free swine flu vaccinations offered in Pasco County
The Pasco County Health Department is offering free vaccinations for the swine flu (H1N1 virus) to high-risk groups on Saturday, November 14.

The strangest plants on Earth
They are a-l-i-v-e and look like they come from another planet. Here are seven of Mother Nature’s most interesting oddities.

Detectives search for suspects in Tampa teen's shooting
An argument over a stolen bicycle led to the shooting of 17-year-old Gregory Allen, Jr. According to his father, the teen planned to join the National Guard.

Florida Department of Education investigates all Polk schools
The Department of Education agrees with a Polk county mother who says schools discriminated against her special education students. Now the state is involved.

Multi-sports complex coming to Pasco County...but where?
The public will have another chance to voice their opinions tonight in Dade City.

Pew Center reveals grim news for Florida
Florida ranks seventh on a think tank's scorecard of "States in Fiscal Peril."

Sarasota sheriff cracking down on prescription drug fraud
Sheriff Tom Knight announces new ways his agency will be getting tough fighting prescription fraud and "doctor shopping."

'Balloon boy' parents to plead guilty to false reporting
The attorney for the Colorado father who reported his son floated away in a helium balloon says his client and the boy's mother will both plead guilty to charges in the case.

Local shelter is in need of public's help
The Spring of Tampa Bay is in need of food and monetary donations to feed domestic violence victims staying in its shelters.

The best and worst return policies for 2009
Here are the results of a new consumer investigation into stores with the easiest...and thoughest...return policies this year.

Tampa shootings leave three dead, one injured
The unrelated shootings occurred in four different locations across Tampa starting late Wednesday afternoon.

Lou Dobbs leaves CNN
Dobbs made the surprise announcement Wednesday night. He had become a lightning rod as an opinionated anchor on such issues as illegal immigration.

Monkey loose in Rowlett Park area
Neighbors called the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission to report a monkey high in a tree near Sligh Avenue.

Taylor's turn: Swift wins entertainer of the year
CMA members didn't stop with Swift, making interesting choices Wednesday night in most of the 12 categories. INSIDE: SEE PHOTOS OF THE BEST DRESSED STARS

Survey shows most Americans have same dinner guest
It seems most Americans see value in having dinner as a family, but the tradition hasn't totally escaped modern technology.

Man gunned down at Tampa Citgo station
The victim was shot and killed while sitting in his car Wednesday night at the Citgo station at Fletcher and 22nd Street.

Sarasota homeless man murdered
Johnny Ball had been riding a bicycle before his body was found Thursday morning along Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way.

Tampa man shot while playing cards
Three men drove to the home and shot Marc Strode while he was outside playing cards with friends, according to police.

17-year-old killed in Tampa shooting
The unidentified teen was shot twice in the chest and died at Tampa General Wednesday night.

Selling your home? 5 must-do's for staging it first
Don't even show your home to a prospective buyer without first making sure you've got these items in order

Italian lawmakers look to shorten length of trials
The Italian government is considering a bill that would mandate a time length for trials.

Surveillance video catches thief in the act
Deputies are searching for a woman accused of stealing a purse and cash at a local fast food restaurant.

Man dies after being shot at a Hillsborough Citgo
The Hillsborough Sheriff's Office says a man died after being shot at a Hillsborough Citgo station.

17-year-old killed in Tampa shooting
Tampa Police are searching for two suspects accused of shooting a 17-year-old twice in the chest.

Man shot once in back in Tampa dies at hospital
Tampa Police say a 20-year-old man was shot and killed Wednesday night during an attempted robbery.

Man in his 20's shot in Hillsborough shopping center
The Hillsborough Sheriff's Office says a man in his 20's was shot in a shopping center.

Truck driver: Man who attacked priest attacked me too
A Tampa tow truck driver said Jasen Bruce, recently accused of attacking a visiting priest with a tire iron, also attacked him two years ago.

Over night lane closure on the Howard Frankland Bridge
Motorists can expect a lane closure on the Howard Frankland Bridge over night.

Hispanic civil rights group endorses health care reform bill
LULAC, the oldest the largest and oldest hispanic civil right's group said they endorse the health care bill headed to the Senate.

Security advisories could come to Facebook and Twitter
Using the social networks to send out alerts is one of the proposed changes to the current system.

Veterans Day offers family a chance to be with their son
Hundreds of people showed up to honor Veterans at the annual ceremony in Bushnell, but for one family the day offered them a chance to be with their son.

Pasco County woman ambushes vets...with hugs
The Army veteran gets various reactions when she approaches the military men.

Tamiflu shortage may affect decision to get H1N1 vaccine
Many parents are worried about whether to give their child the H1N1 vaccine. In some cases, the shots are in short supply. But so is some other medicine used to treat flu.

Students assaulted and robbed after getting off school bus
One teen was punched in the face and the other was robbed by an unknown suspect.

Tracking sex offenders? There's an app for that!
GPS enabled phones married with offender databases allows users to find sex offenders near them in real time.

Staples Black Friday ad released
The chain is offering deals on more than just office supplies.

16-year-old shot in drive by then left at hospital in St.Petersburg
St.Petersburg Police say a 16-year-old was shot in a drive by, then dropped off at All Children's Hospital.

Paisley focused on duties, not noms at CMA awards
Brad Paisley is up for seven trophies at Wednesday's Country Music Association Awards, but his duties as co-host with Carrie Underwood and performer will keep his attention elsewhere.

Target releases 2009 Black Friday ad
Doors open at 5:00 am and there are plenty of deals being offered this year.

Golden Corral offering free meal for military personnel, veterans
As part of their 9th annual Military Appreciation Monday, Golden Corral is offering a free meal to all military personnel.

Six arrested for credit card fraud at Walmart
Suspects bought more than $13,000 worth of gift cards from same cashier at Tampa store.

Employees to return to site of Orlando office shooting
Employees will return to work tomorrow for the first time since a deadly workplace shooting

School honors veterans with inspiring picture
Mulrennen Middle School students and faculty gathered outside to salute those who have fought for our country.

Mother of former Rays player saved from kidnapping
The mother of former major league pitcher Victor Zambrano has been rescued after a three-day kidnapping ordeal.

Polk County man takes plea deal in steroids bust
A Polk County man who claimed to sell steroids to professional athletes has made a plea deal with federal prosecutors.

Polk man participates in unique marathon for veterans
Dusty Franz is on a mission to raise money for fellow veterans.

Brown pelicans coming off endangered species list
After nearly 40 years on the brink of extinction, the brown pelican is coming off the endangered species list.

Holiday money-saving myths debunked
With the holiday shopping season approaching, it's a good time to talk about saving money.

Greek priest back to work after violent attack
A visiting priest who was beaten and accused of being a terrorist was back to performing his duties Wednesday.

How to thank a veteran on Veterans Day
If you're not sure exactly how to thank a veteran, here are several ways to thank them that we found by browsing the web.

Veterans Day bittersweet for many in uniform
As American troops mark Veterans Day, there is much to ponder about their situation.

Google launches flu shot finder
Following up on their launch of Google Flu Trends, Google has launched a new flu shot finder for both the seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccines.

Attention photographers: Florida wants you best shots!
The state's Division of Forestry is sponsoring a photo contest for pictures taken in one of Florida's state forests.

Thousands of dollars in jewelry stolen from K-mart
Thieves broke in through the Ellenton store's garden center over night and smashed the jewelry counter.

Kindle gets and 'F' for school use
You'd think that a device that can read books aloud would be a boon for people who are blind. Not so, says one organization.

Free Wi-Fi at airports for the holidays
But this holiday season Google, Yahoo, eBay and Microsoft are trying to go for the hearts of travelers -- by providing free Wi-Fi access.

Semifinal slate sealed on 'Dancing With the Stars'
He shed tears on the show and once fought for his spot with a dance-off, but Aaron Carter has performed for the last time on 'Dancing.'

The 'Super Toilet' and why you want one for your home
High-tech toilets can be found all over Tokyo; what they've got that your toilets don't

Veterans Day Quiz
Veterans Day is a federal holiday observed on Nov. 11. Test your knowledge of Veterans Day trivia by taking our quiz!

Pinellas man charged with child sexual battery
Matthew Sackett is charged with capital sexual battery and lewd and lascivious molestation of a child under 12-years-old.

State Attorney finds Pinellas Deputy shooting justified
Kentin Brooks was shot and killed after exchanging fire with deputies.

Charges dropped against men in city council brawl
Prosecutors have decided to drop charges against two men who got into a raucous fist fight at a St. Petersburg City Council meeting.

2 Hawaii-based soldiers killed in Iraq
A Florida soldier is among two who were killed in Iraq.

Your rights when flying sick
Think you can get on a plane when you're sick? You may be wrong.

Help arrives for Pasco homeless vets
A former Army chaplain started a resource center to help those in need. Now he's planning a big Veterans Day event.

911 calls show horror during Orlando office shootings
One man whispered that he had been shot in the leg and was afraid the gunman might return.

Students honor Veterans a day early
Students at Imagine School in Land O' Lakes learn what freedom is all about from two Bay area veterans.

Serial flasher wanted in Pasco County
The Sheriff's Office is searching for a man who has exposed himself to both children and adults.

CRITICAL CONDITION: House bill addresses doctor shortage
Various estimates suggest the nation is already short some 40,000 to 80,000 family doctors, even as many primary-care physicians are retiring or cutting back their practices.

How snoring is harmful (and not just for the snorer)
Under the covers: the real impact for the snorer and the "snoree"

Local golf champion Mallory Code dies at age 25
A life-long battle with cystic fibrosis ended Mallory's life Monday evening.

Four car crash injures two in Tampa
Tampa Fire Rescue had to pull a woman out of her vehicle after the crash at Palm Ave. and 21st. St.

Comedian Katt Williams smiles big in burglary mug shot
Katt Williams, a comedian famous for his appearances on BET and HBO, has been jailed in Georgia on charges of burglary and criminal trespassing.

Get Black Friday deals on your iPhone
iPhone and iPod Touch users can access Black Friday deals from their mobile devices using two new apps.

Marine reservist attacks Greek priest
According to police, Jasen Bruce accused the victim of being a terrorist.

Verizon agrees to small rebate for Tampa Bay customers
Phone customers in the Tampa Bay area will get a roughly $2 credit on their phone bills.

Teens charged as adults in fire attack
Three teenagers accused of setting a 15-year-old on fire will be charged as adults.

Housing plan reaches 1 in 5 eligible borrowers
More than 650,000 borrowers, or 20 percent of those eligible, have signed up for trials lasting up to five months, the Treasury Department said Tuesday.

School district banks $145,000 payday
Hillsborough County Schools was rewarded after following through on energy-saving measures.

'DC Sniper' executed in Virginia
John Allen Muhammad was executed Tuesday night for the sniper attacks that terrorized the nation's capital region for three weeks in October 2002.

Ex-astronaut pleads guilty in love triangle case
Former astronaut Lisa Nowak has been sentenced to one-year probation after pleading guilty to attacking a romantic rival.

Plant City High students tested for TB
About 300 of the school's 2,100 students underwent testing on Tuesday after a classmate was confirmed positive for tuberculosis.

Woman followed, approached by cop impersonator
Temple Terrace Police charged Noah Miller with impersonating a police officer after he allegedly tried to stop a woman near her home early Tuesday.

Get holiday pies worthy of the President
President Barack Obama calls his pastry chef 'The Crustmaster' for his perfectly flaky pie crusts. Here's the recipe.

A quiz to celebrate Sesame Street's 40th birthday!
Fans are celebrating the 40th anniversary of Sesame Street, whose first episode aired November 10, 1969. Take our quiz to test your knowledge of the popular show!

Test your skills to see if you are 'spam-proof'
Test your skills to see if you are 'spam-proof.' An online game exposes what you may not know.

State parks free for Veteran's Day
To honor veterans and those who are currently serving in the military, Florida State Parks offer free admission Wednesday.

Ida begins punch on the Panhandle
Ida brings waves 6-10 feet high and several inches of rain as residents prepare to get doused by Tropical Storm Ida.

Thirsty? Check out the top 10 unhealthiest drinks in America
With so many beverages on the market, it might be hard to know just how bad some of them can be for your waistline.

Missing nine-year-old Wildwood girl found
Wildwood police are no longer searching for 9-year-old Nakhya Butler who had been reported missing.

Are restaurants safe from H1N1?
With the swine flu virus continuing to spread, are local restaurants taking extra precautions and prepared for the H1N1 virus?

Woman with baby on lap crashes into building at TIA
The woman, who had an unrestrained infant on her lap, lost control of her vehicle at the American Airlines baggage claim area, according to authorities.

Groom's grandma choked at wedding brawl
A fight involving 30-40 people broke out Sunday night at a Tampa restaurant during a wedding reception, then sparked again at a nearby hotel, according to Tampa Police

Kennedy Blvd reopens after car crashed into pole
Kennedy Blvd is back open after three car crash knocks out power pole.

Man steals computers from Tampa business
Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay is offering an award for information on a man who stole computers from a Tampa business.

Senator Nelson says drilling bad for Florida economy
Nelson is asking Tampa business leaders to stand up against drilling near local Gulf beaches.

CRITICAL CONDITION: What's next for health care?
What role with Florida's Senators play in the next stage of the debate?

36 new Tampa firefighters free to local taxpayers
The Tampa Fire Department has 36 new recruits who'll be fighting fires by the end of the week, but Tampa isn't paying for them.

Bay area boaters docked as Ida goes by
Business is hurting for some as the storm churns up gulf waters.

Man's legs amputated after driver crashes while texting
The State Attorney's office says the man was texting when he crashed into a garbage truck, severing another man's legs.

Images show Orlando shooter in building
Surveillance cameras captured Jason Rodriguez moments before the confessed killer opened fire.

Hernando mother arrested on abuse charges
Investigators say Vanessa Wright never got her child help for major dental issues.

Tourists evacuate panhandle ahead of Tropical Storm Ida
As rain bands moved into Panama City Beach on Monday, tourists were headed out.

Police release video of routine Polk traffic stop that turned violent
Lake Wales police released video of the violent traffic stop that shows officers being attacked.

Detectives gear up for 'Operation Medicine Cabinet'
The event allows Tampa Bay area residents to drop off unused prescription drugs.

Nokia recalls 14 million mobile phone chargers
The European phone manufacturer is recalling 14 million phone chargers due to an electric shock risk.

Bucs' Piscitelli burglarized during win over Packers
The safety's joy of winning over the Green Bay Packers was short lived after he learned he was robbed.

Hurricane Ida continues to weaken
Top winds at 80 mph

The hottest holiday toys - shop now or miss out
Santa's hot-list for kids and grown-ups. Have you bought your Zhu Zhu Pet?

Panhandle prepares for late season storm
Old timers in the state's northern region call the freak late-season storm 'a talker.'

Chef Emeril dishes major scoop
Emeril Lagasse will be back on a primetime show!

Large brush fire burning in Alfia State Park
So far the fire is about 500 acres in size, but difficult weather conditions as well as challenging terrain are making the fire difficult to contain.

Ida stalls divers, fishermen in Tarpon Springs
As Ida bears down on Florida's northern Gulf Coast, some in Tarpon Springs will likely feel the storm's effects for weeks to come.

Tampa police searching for VIP robbery suspects
Police are searching for two unknown suspects who attempted to rob a woman of her prescriptions outside the VIP Pharmacy on Martin Luther King Boulevard in Tampa.

Be a master chef with new video game
A video new game from Food Network let's you chop, fry and cook in a virtual kitchen.

Virus secretly stores child porn on computers
An investigation reveals that Pedophiles can remotely store and view their photos and videos from your machine without fear of getting caught.

Remember Nubs? His story now a best selling book
There is a new chapter in the life of Major Brian Dennis and his four legged friend Nubs.

Coast Guard rescues man, dog from boat off Clearwater
Coast Guard officials said 46-year-old Gregory Lansier was on his 42-foot boat with his dog when they were overcome by extreme weather about 50 miles west of Clearwater.

Man tried to rob woman of prescription drugs
Police say the suspect ran up to the victim as she was leaving the VIP Pharmacy in Tampa and tried to grab her medicine.

Plant City solidier remembered as hero
A widow and her two young children have lost their hero. But, they know Army Specialist Eric Lembke was not only a hero to them but their entire community.

Eassa: 'Throwback' Bucs win first game of the season
Rookie Josh Freeman helped the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in their old creamsicle uniforms, win 38-28 against Green Bay.

Workers overcome by fumes at Port Tampa marina
Paramedics treated two men who were working on a drydocked tug boat.

Hurricane Ida takes aim at Gulf Coast
Hurricane Ida, the first Atlantic hurricane to target the United States this year, plodded Sunday toward the Gulf Coast with 100 mph winds.

Go Creamsicles! Bucs nail 1st win
Rookie quaterback Josh Freeman, making his 1st start, led the Bucs to their first victory of the season, in those lovely throwback uniforms.

Man reaches for dog, gets bitten by alligator
A man searching for his dog was bitten a gator when he reached underneath his car early Sunday morning, according to Florida Fish and Wildlife looking for his dog.

Dad shoots daughter in tragic accident
A Tampa federal investigator was cleaning her gun and asked her father for help when the gun went off.

Deputies hunt burglar, find deer instead
Pinellas County deputies responding to a burglary yesterday got a BIG surprise

Help for Old Computer Conundrum
Local company helps re-cycle old electronics safely and securely.

Gulfport man kills roommate
A argument between two roommates last night leaves one man dead

Your plumber says: Get your home ready for winter
Make a list with these must-do maintenance items, recommended by HGTV

Teen bystander grazed by bullet
An argument between two groups of men ended with a teenage girl being grazed in the face outside a Tampa apartment complex.

CRITICAL CONDITION: House passes democratic healthcare bill
In a victory for President Barack Obama, the Democratic-controlled House narrowly passed landmark health care legislation Saturday night

Police:Child seriously hurt after car runs red light
A 7-year old boy is clinging to life after the car he was riding in ran a red light, Clearwater Police said.

CRITICAL CONDITION:House, Senate health care bills detailed
Here is a comparison of the three health care bills before Congress, including one by House Democrats and an alternative by House Republicans.

CRITICAL CONDITION: House to vote on GOP bill and abortion amendment
The final two steps before the vote on the actual bill.

Innocent bystander shot in Tampa
The victim, who has not been identified, was attending a family gathering at 2122 131st Avenue when she was shot in the lower right leg.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Pelosi says she has the votes for reform
The magic number for health care reform is 218.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Congress to vote on health care bill tonight
A vote is expected at 11p.m.

Brother: Fort Hood suspect is a peaceful person
A brother of the man authorities say went on a shooting spree at Fort Hood says the Army psychiatrist is peaceful person -- and hopes he will be treated fairly by the legal system.

Snakes, lizards and alligators, Oh My!
Animal owners had an opportunity to hand in exotic animals without having to answer any questions at a pet amnesty program at Busch Gardens

Tampa restaurant damaged by fire
Firefighters found heavy smoke coming from the room of Pollos Pucalor, located at 7212 North Armenia Avenue.

Killings remain unsolved as sniper execution nears
In Clearwater, the golf course shooting of Albert Michalczyk on May 18, 2002, officially remains unsolved.

Ida spurs tropical storm warnings in Caribbean
Ida rapidly gained strength over Caribbean waters, and the storm could start affecting the U.S. Gulf Coast by Tuesday.

CRITICAL CONDITION: House vote on health care bill expected tonight
President Barack Obama asked Democrats to "answer the call of history" Saturday as the House pushed toward a vote on a landmark health care bill.

Lawyer:Office shooting suspect mentally ill
Jason Rodriguez, 40, was ordered held without bail at the Orange County Jail, where he is under suicide watch after Friday's shooting.

Man faces child porn charges
Officers say a routine investigation led them to the photos.

Flying High in Tampa
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Summit this weekend!

Man threatens to kill store clerk
Hillsborough sheriff's deputies are looking for a man who threatened to kill a convenience store clerk last night.

John & Sean on Underwood, Lambert, Weezer & Wolfmother
Big music releases in November - what Sean and John like and don't like

Thanksgiving travel bargains
The editors from Travelzoo have some advice for people hoping to save money on holiday travel.

Learning the Recording Biz
Students at St. Petersburg College Exposed to Unique Program

7 steps to an eco-friendly garden
This weekend, take action to make your garden green and "green"

Fort Hood victims had different reasons for enlisting
The victims included a pregnant woman who was preparing to return home, a man who quit a furniture company job to join the military about a year ago and a newlywed who had served in Iraq.

82-year-old stabbing victim released from hospital
After getting stabbed several times by a friend and having surgery on her hand, Genevieve Zebrowski is out of the hospital.

USF offers veterans specialized education
USF became the first university in the nation to offer a first of a kind education program to veterans returning home from war.

CRITICAL CONDITION: How reform could affect your FSA
The Democratic plan could place a cap on your pre-tax contribution.

Grow house busted in another up-scale Pasco neighborhood
Sheriff's deputies foundnd 171 marijuana plants in a $400,000 Land O'Lakes house.

Senator Nelson calling on Chinese to fix drywall mess
Nelson, in Tampa on Friday, also expressed frustration at the pace of the federal investigation.

Cross dressing bank robber kidnaps man to get away
Witnesses say a man in drag held up a bank in Pinellas County.

Cops: Wife faked abduction to scam husband
Authorities say the 25-year-old mechanic charged with trying to extort thousands from the woman's husband wasn't her captor, but her accomplice and lover.

5-year-old found wandering after teacher's mistake
The girl's mother says a kindergarten teacher put her daughter on the bus rather than handing her off to aftercare.

Trapped in a high rise with a gunman
An employee working in the Orlando high rise eight floors above the shooting shares his experience.

Polk Sheriff asks for help identifying beer thief
The Polk County Sheriff's Office is asking the public's help in identifying a man accused of tricking a cashier in order to steal beer and cigarettes.

Pinellas student arrested with weapons on school grounds
A throwing star and several other dangerous objects were found inside a teen's vehicle at Dixie Hollins High in St. Petersburg.

INVESTIGATION: Are one community's red light cameras effective?
An ABC Action News investigation raises questions about whether accidents have increased since the City of Temple Terrace installed red light cameras.

Suspect in Orlando office shooting had money woes
Asked by a reporter outside the police station why he did it, Jason Rodriguez replied: "Because they left me to rot."

Local veteran shares training experience at Fort Hood
Before going to Baghdad, Tina Hood trained in the same building where the massacre happened.

Jurors don't bite on 'too fat' defense
A New Jersey jury has rejected a Florida man's claims that he was too fat to kill and has convicted him of murdering his former son-in-law.

Numbers revealed: What did Cash for Clunkers do for Florida?
The figures generated by the program are staggering, especially in Florida.

Moment of silence set Friday for Fort Hood victims
Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has declared a moment of silence for U.S. military forces worldwide as a show of respect for the Fort Hood victims.

Man botches drive-by shooting
Police say Anderew Burwitz forgot to roll down his car window during a drive-by shooting at his ex-girlfriend's house.

Pasco cops bust moonshiners
Two men admitted to using the still to make moonshine for their own use and to sell to their friends and co-workers, deputies say.

Local Veteran in command of 44,000 soldiers
With 44,000 U.S. soldiers under his command, Major General Luis Visot has plenty to stress over. Yet, he doesn't.

Ida expected to strengthen
Ida has emerged into the northwest Caribbean Sea, where it is expected to strengthen and could be in the Gulf not far from Tampa Bay next week.

Fort Hood suspect said goodbyes before shooting
As if going off to war, Major Nidal Malik Hasan said goodbyes and dispensed belongings to neighbors.

Florida news quiz: Do you pay attention?
How much do you know about recent events in the Tampa Bay area and the rest of Florida? Take our quiz and test your recall.

Around the house - the season's hottest looks
5 hot decorator trends to get your home ready for the holiday season

A bay area 'Original' celebrates 50 years!
Residents in original Carrollwood, one of Hillsborough county's first planned communities, are throwing a party this weekend to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Man guilty of shooting ex-wife in Pasco County
A Pasco County man has been found guilty of kidnapping and shooting his estranged wife in 2006.

Swine flu vaccine available to Pinellas students
See list of schools scheduled to have vaccinations.

Bay area swine flu cases down in past week
After a week of widespread outbreaks, Hillsborough County reports no new cases.

Pet killed as family escapes Northdale fire
Hillsborough County firefighters say a family was lucky to escape a house fire that started in the bedroom of a 14-year-old boy.

Two killed in Clearwater motorcycle crash
Authorities say the driver was speeding when he failed to make a turn on Montclair Road Thursday night.

Unemployment Rate Hits 10.2%
The national unemployment rate tops 10% for the first time since 1983.

Three injured in motorcycle, pick-up truck collision
Three people were injured when a motorcycle and a pick-up truck collided in Dunedin.

Intelligence officer: Did Fort Hood shooter have 'sinister' connections?
A former intelligence officer with 30 years of experience spoke to ABC Action News about what the United States should be doing to learn more about suspected Fort Hood shooter Nidal Malik Hasan.

Inmates talk about saving deputy's life
Four Hillsborough County inmates sat before the press on Thursday as heroes.

1 dead, 1 injured in Clearwater motorcylce crash
One person was killed and another is clinging to life after they were ejected from their motorcycle while driving along Montclair Road Thursday Night.

Jury convicts man in Jaguars player shooting
A jury convicted a man Thursday of attempted murder in the shooting of former Jacksonville Jaguars offensive lineman Richard Collier in 2008.

Tampa woman arms herself after terrifying encounter
A Tampa woman recently caught four men breaking into her house. Next time, she wants to be prepared.

Report clears Sarasota Police in beating caught on camera
Video showing Sarasota Police Officer Christopher Childers kicking Juan Gomez-Perez launched a series of errors by the Sarasota Police Department, according to an outside investigation.

CRITICAL CONDITION: AARP, American Cancer Society endorses House bill
A new round of endorsements give major boost to Democrats.

Tuberculosis case confirmed at Plant City High School
Department of Health spokesman Steve Huard said the student is home, in isolation, and is expected to be OK.

PCSO: Get rid of your unused prescription drugs
The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office is asking people to drop off old prescription medicine.

Officials: Suspect not among 12 dead in Fort Hood shooting
An Army psychiatrist set to be shipped overseas opened fire at the Fort Hood Army post Thursday, authorites said, a rampage that killed 12 people and left 31 wounded.

Bartow Church: Mother Nature took our holiday donations
A Church fire burned food, clothing and toys intended for hundreds of needy families during hard times.

Gov't ends immigration case against Megahed
More than 2 years after he was first arrested and accused of being a terrorist, federal officials announced they will not retry Youssef Megahed on immigration charges.

Transgendered people get protections in Tampa
Tampa city council gives first approval to include transgendered in city's human rights ordinance.

St. Petersburg teen to appear on Jeopardy tonight
A high school freshman is participating in Jeopardy's Teen Tournament tonight.

Missing Bay Area teen found in Colorado
Runaway caught with a 21-year-old sexual offender who had fled his Pinellas County home without telling authorities.

Son of jail attack hero speaks out
The teenage son of of a Hillsborough jail inmate reacts to the video of his dad saving deputy's life.

Trapper who faked python capture charged
Justin Matthews, who staged the capture of a 14-foot python in a drainage ditch, is charged with misusing the 911 system.

TK's Take: This is ridiculous! What's the beef?
Some members of Bucs 1979 team are disgruntled with Sunday's ceremonial 'throwback' day. Tom Korun says, 'Get over it!'

Yankees win World Series
A Japanese import helped the Bronx Bombers drive to the top of the baseball world once again with their 27th World Series title.

Missing Florida baby found alive under sitter's bed
'Grown men crying.' An emotional Washington County sheriff told reporters that a baby missing for five days was found alive in a box under her sitter's bed.

A fast quiz on fast food
Answer these questions to find out if you're making the right choices when eating on the run.

Clearwater woman charged with stabbing 82-year-old neighbor
Martha Gold was charged with attempted murder after detectives say she got into a fight with her neighbor at the Top of the World Condominiums.

Chinese drywall meeting being held in Tampa
Experts discuss research on the drywall and what could be done to fix problems.

Air Jordans cost UCF future deal with Adidas
'The University of Central Florida has chosen not to deliver on their contractual commitment to Adidas,' Adidas spokeswoman Andrea Corso wrote in an e-mail.

Crist wants special session on commuter rail
The plan calls for a railroad link between Tampa and Orlando.

CRITICAL CONDITION: AARP ready to endorse Democratic House bill
The senior advocacy group says much is at stake for seniors.

Clay County deputies to get counseling after killings
A crisis-management team was convening Thursday to help the north Florida county's 600 deputies and civilian personnel.

NRA Wants to prohibit gun questions for adoptions
The advocacy group says the questions are invasive and amount to creating an illegal gun registry.

38 red light runners cited at Clearwater intersections
Clearwater Police cite 38 red light runners during a traffic enforcement meeting.

Family of suspects in teen burning apologize to victim
The family of the boys accused of setting a classmate on fire apologized to the victim's family Wednesday.

Vehicle that hit Tampa mother and daughter identified
Tampa Detectives have identified the vehicle involved in a hit and run that injured a mother and daughter in October.

Dispute over woman leads to shooting at Tampa gas station
Tampa Police responded to a shooting at a Marathon gas station Wednesday night.

Doctor: Major differences between starved baby, normal baby
Weight? Formula? Doctor visits? A Tampa doctor says the Lakeland parents accused of starving their child were nowhere near normal, if the sheriff’s version of the facts is true.

Community to honor fallen Plant City soldier
The body of fallen Plant City soldier will be carried in a procession in Tampa on Thursday afternoon.

Family of seven escape Tampa house fire
A family of seven escaped a house fire in Tampa on Wednesday afternoon.

Michelle Obama's garden on 'Iron Chef America'
The Food Network has announced that an episode of 'Iron Chef America' will be taped at the White House.

Polk Sheriff upset over inmate's stay of execution
Through several appeals, Paul Beasley Johnson has dodged his scheduled execution. Sheriff Grady Judd calls it a "delay in justice".

Mayor-elect Bill Foster looks ahead
The Mayor-elect in St. Petersburg says a few things may change when he takes over in January.

New credit card rules could start December 1
Lawmakers voted Wednesday to speed up the process to crack down on banks.

'Granddad Bandit' strikes Florida
Authorities are searching for an elderly man that has hit up banks in at least six different states.

Hillsborough County creates website for Chinese drywall
Here affected residents can learn about assistance available to them through the county.

H1N1 flu fear has far reaching effects
The swine flu has added stress and worry to a lot of people's lives. It's also made for a lot of work for local school districts.

CRITICAL CONDITION: What's in the GOP bill?
Find out why it's receiving criticism from the left.

Billboard supporting Atheism upsets some Lakeland drivers
A 36-foot wide billboard that asks: "Don't believe in god? You're not alone," is upsetting quite a few people.

New canine influenza study beginning in Tampa
The ASPCA and the University of Colorado are funding a study at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay to develop a quick and easy way to test for canine influenza.

Plane experiences rough landing at Vandenburg Airport
Two people were injured after a plane had a rough landing at Vandenburg Airport.

Largo Officer fired, charged with DUI after crash
An officer was arrested after leaving the scene of multiple accidents investigators say he caused.

Transit tax inches towards ballot
Hillsborough voters could have final say on a sales tax increase to fund mass transit projects.

UPDATE: Former Sheriff's Deputy to be evicted
Hillsborough County Commissioners have begun efforts to evict fired Sheriff's Deputy from his rent free home.

WATCH: Inmates rescue sheriff's deputy in jail attack
Jail commanders say the deputy might have died if inmates hadn't come to the rescue.

Hillsborough anti-bullying program receives additional funds
The Bully Buster Program has gotten a financial boost.

It's a big 'Bird'-day!
Beloved Sesame Street character Big Bird is celebrating the big 4-0!

11 students taken to hospital following school bus accident
The Hillsborough school bus, with 39 children aboard, was headed to Beth Shields Middle School when it was involved in a crash with a truck.

Anti-bullying campaign gets big boost
Hillsborough County's new anti-bullying program, Bully Busters, is getting a major endorsement from the Sheriff's Office. Today, Sheriff David Gee will hand over a $50,000 check to help keep Bully Busters going.

Diver drowns in Hernando's Eagle Nest Caverns
James Woodall of Kentucky had problems with his diving gear about 500 feet into the underwater caves.

Man found dead behind Hudson home
Authorities are treating the man's death on Oak Drive as suspicious.

Tampa police shoot pit bull that attacked two people
One victim was a Hillsborough County Sheriff's deputy who scaled a fence to save himself.

Tampa woman accused of child abuse
Police say the victim showed up at school with welts over her body.

Two Lakeland students get unwelcome morning surprise
Some kids waiting at their bus stop got a scare this morning after woman forgot to check her rear view mirror.

How to regain your emotional balance
Is your life spinning in circles, or even out of control? 10 quick tools to pick yourself back on your feet

UPDATE: Eviction proceedings to move forward against fired deputy
Hillsborough County Commissioners have voted to begin the process of evicting a fired Sheriff’s Deputy from his rent-free home in Brandon’s Saladino Park.

Man shoots self in hand
A man hospitalized after being shot in the hand told deputies the gun went off while he was handling it.

Police academy student arrested
Brandon Jacob of Winter Haven allegedly punched a man in the face at a ball field in Polk City.

Missing Florida baby's parents were investigated
The Florida Department of Children and Families says it investigated 7-month-old Shannon Dedrick's mother and father after the August complaint, and workers have had "a lot of involvement" with the family.

This church has gone to the dogs!
To attract new members, the pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles has turned God's house into a doghouse for one service each Sunday.

Irvin and Dacascos booted from 'Dancing with the Stars'
The judges' scores are combined with viewer votes to determine which contestants are eliminated each week.

Obama's half-brother recalls abusive dad
It's the story of an abusive parent patterned on their late father, the mostly absent figure Obama wrote about in his own memoir.

Is your pilot checking email or texting while flying?
Lawmakers are taking steps to ban the use of laptop computers and other personal electronic devices in cockpits.

Inventors audition in Ybor City
Anthony Sullivan, host of the reality show Pitchmen is reported to be one of the judges.

Bush and Clinton to debate at Radio City Music Hall
Coming next year to Radio City Music Hall: Bush vs. Clinton.

Polk County woman's wallet stolen from shopping cart
The woman was shopping at a Dollar General the wallet was taken out of her shopping cart. Detectives want to talk to a man and woman seen near the cart.

H1N1 concerns spur orange juice boom
Sale of orange juice has spiked over the last six months, as worries about H1N1 flu have spread.

Aki traded to Pirates for relief pitcher
Rays save over a half million by dealing Iwamura to Pittsburgh.

Football team parents fight to win back forfeited games
Parents are going to court to fight a Florida High School Athletics Association rule.

Dunedin company recalls hot chocolate mix
Pelican Bay Ltd. is recalling all of its Caramel Chocolate Truffle Hot Chocolate Mix because the product might contain an ingredient not listed on the packaging.

Burning car smokes out downtown Tampa
A Tampa man was not completely surprised that his car would burst into flames.

Wife recalls holding husband as he died 34 years ago
Ann Williams-Thorn lost her husband 34 years ago. Every November 3rd since then she’s put a wreath at the Fallen Officers memorial. But this time, there was a glitch.

Florida sues Expedia, Orbitz
The State claims the online travel sites aren't paying Florida its fair share of taxes they collect.

Teacher diagnosed with cancer shares emotional struggle
Tamara Phillips, a teacher at Plant High School, was diagnosed with Leukemia in August. Now her students are trying to save her life.

H1N1: Manatee County announces first vaccine locations
Manatee County Health Department staff will be providing H1N1 (swine flu) vaccinations at seven public school clinics in conjunction with Manatee County Schools, starting Friday, November 6th.

Pasco County to offer free H1N1 vaccinations
Clinics will be held this weekend in several different communities.

Rifle stolen from Polk County Deputy's vehicle
The Polk County Sheriff's Office says an agency-issued rifle was stolen from a detective's vehicle.

81-year-old woman escapes St.Pete house fire
An 81-year-old woman made it out of a house fire in St. Petersburg on Tuesday afternoon.

Pinellas detention deputy arrested for doctor shopping
An investigation revealed suspicious activity and lead to the arrest of the deputy.

Your H1N1 flu questions answered
Check out the transcript from our web chat to find answers to your questions.

William Brown found guilty of murdering Ryan Skipper
Skipper's body was found with 19 stab wounds on the side of a Polk County road in 2007. William Brown, who was charged with the crime, said he didn't do it.

Police: Couple stole thousands of bags from Phoenix airport
Two people have been arrested for allegedly stealing thousands of baggage items from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Kmart Black Friday ad released
Dubbed "Blue Friday" by the retail chain, the shopping day will feature hundreds of doorbusters for 5 hours only.

Parents charged with starving baby to death
A Polk County mother and father are accused of starving their 5-month-old daughter to death. Sheriff Grady Judd called it 'nothing other than torture.'

TK's Take: Bucs 'throwback' Sunday no laughing matter
Bucs Hall of Famer Lee Roy Selmon will be honored.

The curious life of Kaleb Schwade
Did a child abuse victim, who will be a vegetable for life, somehow save someone's life?

Hard Rock Casino winner loses $166 million
Hard Rock Casino officials say a slot machine malfunction voided a Daytona Beach mans multi-million dollar payout.

Phillies hold off Yanks in World Series Game 5
Chase Utley hit two home runs to raise his World Series total to a record-tying five. Cliff Lee won again beating the Yankees 8-6.

Tax credit for pet owners under consideration
Having a 'domesticated' pet may soon save you money on your taxes.

How the recession may lead to longer life expectancy
Why for some, there's a backwards relationship between good times and long life

Bill Foster wins race for St. Petersburg Mayor
Bill Foster knew he was the winner less than an hour after the polls closed.

Click inside to see results from all of the races.

Fed to talk about surge in mortgage fraud
The Federal Reserve will use a series of news conferences to discuss Florida's mortgage fraud surge.

Man attacks wife with gasoline
Marco Brown doused his wife and her car with gasoline and tried to set her on fire, according to police.

Troopers seek driver of stolen car
Investigators say the trooper tried to stop the speeding vehicle at I-275 in the area of 54th Avenue North in St. Petersburg.

Three names, one social security number, one trip to jail
Deputies have charged Carl Martin Desmond of Spring Hill with trying to get a driver's license under three different names.

Man wearing breathalyzer costume charged with DUI
Police say James Miller, who wore a breathalyzer costume for Halloween, is facing a DUI charge after his arrest over the weekend.

Wine thief caught red (and white) handed
A homeless man stole several bottles of wine from a Port Richey CVS by hiding them down his pants.

Home health care worker steals from 91-year-old patient
A New Port Richey woman is accused of trying to forge several checks she took from the elderly woman she was looking after.

Paula Dockery to run for Florida governor
Florida State Sen. Paula Dockery says she will run for governor, challenging Attorney General Bill McCollum for the Republican nomination.

Missing Bradenton woman found unharmed
The Manatee County Sheriff's Office says missing 22-year-old Nayeli Torrez has been found unharmed.

Car slams into a Pinellas Park home
Tomas Rios was nearly run over by the car while he was sitting in his living room.

Voters cast early ballots in St. Pete mayoral race
More than 20,000 people voted by mail-in ballot before Tuesday's election.

Search continues for missing 7-month old baby
Shannon Dedrick was last seen at her Chipley home early Saturday morning.

Bad ecomony brings new breed of people in need
A Tampa man can relate to those asking for help.

Students rally to save teacher's life
A Plant High School teacher was diagnosed with a deadly disease, but her students are fighting to keep her alive.

Guavaween a bust for some businesses
Ybor merchants say low attendance for the annual event cost them money.

Bid to widen Bruce B. Downs $31 million below estimate
Once the project is given final approval, the work will begin after the holidays.

CRITICAL CONDITION: Health care bill would cap spending accounts
Bills in both the House and Senate would cap contributions to Flexible Spending Accounts at $2,500.

Customers shocked to find Florida No Fault offices closed
Without any warning to customers, the prominent auto insurance company closed several of its Florida offices.

33 arrested during Manatee drug roundup
Manatee County undercover agents are still searching for 20 more narcotics dealers.

Three-year-old trick or treater bitten between his legs by dog
Real life fear on Halloween for child and his family.

Become a Black Friday VIP at Best Buy
Best Buy is bringing back their popular contest that could get you in the store before any other shoppers.

CRITICAL CONDTION: Where is the GOP health care bill?
GOP leadership says they will unveil an alternative this week.

Did Brandon Spikes intentionally gouge a Georgia player's eyes?
Fans are outraged after video surfaced showing Florida linebacker Brandon Spikes digging inside the face mask of a Georgia running back.

Tampa man accused of date rape
Police said the victim said "NO" and the suspect threatened her with a knife.

County expected to drop plans to put homeless shelter in mall
Protests from neighbors and the mall's owner sealed the deal.

$15 H1N1 vaccine available in Hillsborough County
The Hillsborough County Health Department will be distributing the vaccine to high risk residents this afternoon.

Parents protest proposed cell tower in Wesley Chapel
Parents are out telling other parents about the cell phone tower to be built on the campus of John Long Middle School.

Bicyclist hit, killed by Hillsborough deputy
A blood test at Tampa General Hospital showed that Johnathan Lee Loschen's blood-alcohol level was more than three times the legal limit.

Yankees lead World Series 3-1
The Yanks rallied with three runs after two were out in the ninth inning to beat Philadelphia 7-4 Sunday night.

Bucs the only winless team this season
St. Louis and Tennessee both won their first games of the season this past weekend leaving Tampa Bay as the only winless team in the NFL so far.

Ford Reports $1 Billion In Profits In 3rd Quarter
Ford Motor Co. earned one billion dollars in the third quarter by cutting internal costs and extra sales generated by the government's "Cash for Clunkers" rebate program.

Men bitten by snakes minutes apart
Two men who didn't know each other ended up three rooms down from each other in a Tampa hospital.

Girl who had sex with teacher sues school district
The lawsuit alleges that the Hillsborough County school district failed to protect the victim.

Parents accused of smoking pot with infant in car
Cierra Michel and Mike Johnson were pulled over by Hillsborough deputies who smelled marijuana and noticed the two-week-old child in the back seat.

Final lap for St. Petersburg mayoral candidates
Despite Bill Foster having outspent Kathleen Ford in the campaign by a wide margin, the two have remained close in the polls. Tuesday is election day.

Blame Mom for kid's obesity?
Fierce reaction to new research, and friendly advice for imperfect moms, working or not

High School teacher seeks compatible bone marrow donor after surprise leukemia diagnosis
Plant High School is reaching out to the community in hopes they'll be able to help a teacher in need of a compatible bone marrow donor.

94-year-old man charged with lewd behavior
Deputies say Albert Edward Ballough was arrested for masterbating on the front porch of his home in Holiday.

St Petersburg and Miami to get new mayors this week
Tuesday's election day will bring new mayors to St. Petersburg and Miami

Inmate accused of attacking his attorneys in jail visitation room
Attorneys were meeting with him about his trial, which was 2 days away.

Competition encourages teen seat belt use
Hillsborough County officials want teens to get the message that seat belts save lives.

Tears of hope as hundreds finish cancer walk
1500 people crossed the finish line Sunday. They walked 60 miles. Each step was a step towards a cure for breast cancer.

Dozens sickened by irritant at St. Pete Airport
Paramedics were called out to a terminal at the St. Petersburg-Clearwater Airport Sunday after dozens of passengers and staff complained of scratchy throats and began coughing.

Chicken craze hits Tampa Bay
A popular promotion led to some long lines for dinner this weekend. One chain offered a complete chicken meal for only a dollar.

Pitbull brings joy to Carrollwood residents
They are often called dangerous dogs. But, some stress pitbulls love can be theraputic to those that need it the most.

Holocaust survivor dies before dream is realized
Manny Riba worked tirelessly to bring a historic torah to his place of worship. He accomplished a goal but sadly died before seeing it for himself.

Murdered rapper developed musical talents at church
21-year-old Shamir Garnelo was murdered Saturday night at a Pasco County party, where he was supposed to perform.

Defections, court fights test Scientology
Over the course of two days last week, a French court convicted the church of fraud and Oscar-winning filmmaker Paul Haggis' resignation from the church over a litany of concerns was aired publicly

After-school vaccination centers open in Hillsborough
Four vaccination centers begin offering the H1N1 vaccine to students today.

Bradenton man accused of sexually abusing 7-year-old
27-year-old Pedro Flores-Marquez allegedly lured his victim into his home by offering to show the child a BB gun.

Evangelical leader Dobson leaving radio show
Dr. James Dobson, the voice of Focus on the Family, will no longer host its flagship radio broadcast and is cutting formal ties with the Christian ministry he founded more than 30 years ago.

Handbags and happy hour to benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation
Buy designer handbags and proceeds go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation

Remembering Sergeant Ron Harrison
Hillsborough County lost a beloved Sheriff's deputy after he was gunned down at a DUI Checkpoint over two and half years ago.

Clermont boy fatally struck by SUV
An 8-year-old boy, who was apparently spending Halloween at a church event designed for safety, was fatally struck by a sports utility vehicle in central Florida.

No one wants to RIP next to Marilyn Monroe?
There were no bids during the second auction of the marble mausoleum crypt above Marilyn Monroe.

Man fatally stabbed during Fantasy Fest
Police said 23-year-old Marques Butler was stabbed at 4 a.m. Saturday in an apparent fight during Fantasy Fest, the island city's annual costuming and masking festival.

Mickey Mouse takes on 'tough guy' image
Mickey Mouse is getting a new persona to appeal to a new generation.

Teen girls fighting school suspension over sexy photos
The photos were posted over summer break. The sophomore coeds say a school suspension is unfair.

Flu or cold? How to tell the difference
You feel sick, but you're not sure if you've got the flu or just a common cold? Chills, fever, a cough? Here are some symptoms to compare.

Florida man wrongfully convicted refuses compensation
Leroy McGee is refusing to complete the documents, fearing that taking the money could end up hurting others who will seek similar reparations in the future.

Man dies in Florida rip current
An Indiana man died and several other people were hospitalized after getting caught in strong Florida rip currents.

El Nino could mean harsh Winter
Warmer than normal waters in Pacific increase potential for wicked weather

Fire torches house, leaves St. Pete man with serious burns
Fire officials say the fire broke out around 8:30 am at the man's home at 4810 6th Avenue North.

Volunteers clean up woman's messy property
South Florida woman owes thousands in code violation fines

CBO: Only 2 percent would take public option
A new study finds the public option plan might actually help private insurance plans.

The Obamas celebrate Halloween with D.C area kids
The president and first lady handed out Halloween treats to more than two thousand trick-or-treaters.

Walmart reduces prices on 100 toys
The reduced prices are in addition to Walmart's 100 toys for $10 pricing previously announced.